Unplugging from the electric world and embracing the acoustic guitar can be a transformative experience for any musician. While electric guitars offer distortion, feedback, and effects to mask imperfections, acoustic guitars demand precision, clarity, and often, exceptional songwriting. The beauty of acoustic arrangements lies in their ability to breathe new life into familiar tunes, offer unique interpretations of covers, and highlight the sheer perfection of well-crafted songs.
Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting your musical journey, exploring the realm of acoustic music is essential. To guide you, we’ve curated a list of 30 of the best acoustic songs that resonate with guitar players and music lovers alike. These are the tracks that inspire, challenge, and showcase the magic of acoustic guitar. Get ready to discover songs that will send shivers down your spine and make your fingers itch to pick up your guitar.
30. Queen – Love Of My Life
Love Of My Life stands as a powerful testament to the sheer impact of voice and acoustic guitar. In this Queen classic, Freddie Mercury delivers a vulnerable and emotionally charged performance, conveying hurt and hope simultaneously. Brian May’s guitar work is nothing short of majestic, providing the perfect accompaniment to Mercury’s impeccable vocals. This song exemplifies intimacy and raw emotion in its purest form, making it a must-learn for any acoustic guitarist.
29. The Smiths – Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want
Is The Smiths’ “Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want” the ultimate melancholic masterpiece? Many would argue yes. Morrissey’s vocals are filled with yearning, perfectly complemented by Johnny Marr’s understated acoustic arrangement. This track barely lifts its head, evoking a sense of quiet desperation under a grey sky. Short, bittersweet, and utterly captivating, this song is a masterclass in sophisticated miserablism, ideal for introspective acoustic sessions.
28. John Lennon – Working Class Hero
Post-Beatles John Lennon at his rawest and most impactful is arguably found in his acoustic work, particularly in “Working Class Hero.” This Dylan-esque track features Lennon’s signature angry snarl, delivered with just three chords and an acoustic guitar. A scathing critique of the class system, the song carries an undeniable purity and biting honesty. Lennon’s use of strong language further emphasizes the raw emotion and rebellious spirit of this iconic acoustic anthem.
27. Don McLean – American Pie
Forget any cover versions you might have heard; Don McLean’s original “American Pie” remains the definitive acoustic rendition. This opus is a cornerstone of acoustic songwriting, with lyrics that have been endlessly analyzed and debated. McLean himself famously quipped that the song’s meaning is that he “doesn’t ever have to work again if he doesn’t want to.” Beyond its lyrical depth, the acoustic guitar work in “American Pie” is captivating and essential for any aspiring acoustic player.
26. Nick Drake – Pink Moon
The mystique of Nick Drake’s life is inextricably linked to his music, and “Pink Moon” beautifully embodies this enigma. This track showcases Drake’s remarkable talent for crafting ear-catching chord progressions and his distinctive use of unique tunings. His melodic lines are hauntingly memorable, lingering in your mind long after the song ends. “Pink Moon” is a testament to Drake’s immense talent, tragically cut short, but forever etched in acoustic music history.
25. Fleetwood Mac – Landslide
“Landslide” is one of Fleetwood Mac’s most enduring and frequently performed songs, deeply rooted in Stevie Nicks’ tumultuous relationship with Lindsey Buckingham. Beneath Nicks’ emotionally charged vocals, Buckingham lays down dense layers of delicate fingerpicked guitar passages. While Smashing Pumpkins delivered a faithful cover, nothing quite captures the raw emotional atmosphere of the original Fleetwood Mac version. “Landslide” remains a benchmark for acoustic songwriting and performance.
24. Alice In Chains – Down In A Hole (Unplugged)
Recorded during their iconic 1996 MTV Unplugged session, “Down In A Hole” showcases Alice In Chains at their most vulnerable and emotive. This stripped-down acoustic version highlights the song’s raw power. The finger-picked minor chords and the intertwined, gravelly vocal harmonies of Layne Staley and Jerry Cantrell perfectly exemplify the delicate yet potent side of 90s grunge. “Down In A Hole” unplugged is a masterclass in acoustic emotional intensity.
23. Bob Dylan – The Times They Are A-Changin’
Is “The Times They Are A-Changin'” the quintessential timeless protest song? It very well might be. Beyond its powerful and poetic lyrics, Bob Dylan’s Celtic-infused strumming pattern is incredibly captivating. The chord progression is so compelling that it could be looped endlessly. This social anthem, deeply rooted in folk tradition, continues to resonate across generations, solidifying its place as an enduring acoustic classic.
22. Stevie Ray Vaughan – Life By The Drop
“Life By The Drop” is a rare acoustic gem from the electric guitar icon, Stevie Ray Vaughan. Here, SRV trades his Strat for a 12-string acoustic, delivering a shimmering blues shuffle. Though penned by Doyle Bramhall and Barbara Logan, Stevie’s soulful vocals and heartfelt embellishments make this poignant ode to a life touched by addiction undeniably his own. This track reveals a different facet of SRV’s artistry, showcasing his acoustic blues prowess.
21. The Rolling Stones – Wild Horses
If you’ve struggled to replicate the sound of “Wild Horses” on acoustic guitar, you might be missing a key element: Mick Taylor used Nashville tuning on the original recording. This subtle technique adds a unique shimmer to the track. Even legendary Stones pianist Ian Stewart initially resisted recording his part due to his aversion to minor chords, highlighting the song’s emotional depth. “Wild Horses” remains a testament to the Stones’ versatility and acoustic songwriting skills.
20. Foo Fighters – Everlong (acoustic)
“Everlong” initially exploded onto the scene as a high-energy electric track on Foo Fighters’ “The Colour And The Shape” album. However, it was Dave Grohl’s impromptu solo acoustic rendition on Howard Stern’s radio show that truly cemented its legendary status. Grohl’s urgent strumming and raw, plaintive vocals created a sensation, proving the song’s power transcended instrumentation. This acoustic version became so popular that it rivaled the original electric recording in fame and impact.
19. Oasis – Wonderwall
When Noel Gallagher penned the simple four-chord progression of “Wonderwall,” he unknowingly created the ultimate beginner acoustic guitar anthem. This defining Oasis single became synonymous with Britpop’s unplugged sound. Despite its immense popularity and ubiquity, “Wonderwall” surprisingly only reached number 2 in the UK charts, famously kept from the top spot by a pop duo. Nevertheless, its legacy as an acoustic guitar staple remains unchallenged.
18. John Martyn – May You Never
“May You Never” is the sonic embodiment of a tough exterior concealing a wounded heart, a perfect description of John Martyn himself. A complex and profoundly talented artist, Martyn possessed the unique ability to convey immense emotional depth. “May You Never” showcases his mastery, delivering world-weary advice with stunning guitar work and heartfelt vocals, from a man who understood life’s complexities and mistakes.
17. Kansas – Dust In The Wind
The origins of “Dust In The Wind” are humble: it began as a fingerpicking exercise for Kansas guitarist Kerry Livgren. He then brought it to the band, transforming it into a prog-folk masterpiece. The song’s chorus-like shimmer isn’t from a 12-string, but rather from Livgren and fellow guitarist Rich Williams playing standard and Nashville-tuned acoustics simultaneously. This technique adds depth and texture to this unexpected acoustic hit from a prog-rock band.
16. Eric Clapton – Layla (Unplugged)
Eric Clapton’s “Unplugged” album, recorded in the wake of personal tragedy, became one of the most successful of his career. This stripped-down, rearranged acoustic version of “Layla” is a standout track. Ironically, this laid-back performance won the Grammy for Best Rock Song in 1992, beating out Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” showcasing the diverse appeal of acoustic music even in the rock genre.
15. Radiohead – Fake Plastic Trees
Thom Yorke’s introspective lyrics and emotive vocals in “Fake Plastic Trees” resonate deeply. While the song builds into a non-acoustic crescendo, its core acoustic foundation makes it incredibly satisfying to play solo. Hitting Yorke’s high notes is a challenge, but mastering this song is a rewarding experience for any acoustic guitarist and vocalist.
14. Led Zeppelin – Going To California
Led Zeppelin, despite their hard rock reputation, delivered acoustic gems like “Going To California.” This wistful track features Jimmy Page’s intricate acoustic guitar work, utilizing open tunings and mandolin. Robert Plant’s vocals are unusually restrained, adding to the song’s delicate beauty. “Going To California” highlights Zeppelin’s versatility and mastery of acoustic textures.
13. James Taylor – Fire And Rain
James Taylor, a master acoustic storyteller, uses “Fire And Rain” as a cathartic expression of grief and personal struggles. The song reflects on the suicide of a childhood friend and Taylor’s own battles with addiction and fame. Adding to its legacy, Carole King played piano on the track and was so moved by Taylor’s lyrics that she wrote “You’ve Got A Friend” in response to the line, “I’ve seen lonely times when I could not find a friend.”
12. Neil Young – Heart Of Gold
Neil Young’s biggest hit, “Heart Of Gold,” emerged from an unexpected source: a back injury. Unable to play electric guitars comfortably, Young turned to acoustics, writing a series of gentle songs, including “Heart Of Gold,” in 1971. While a massive commercial success, reaching number 1 on the Billboard charts, Bob Dylan famously admitted his dislike for the song, jokingly complaining about its similarity to his own style.
11. Extreme – More Than Words
Admit it, you’ve played “More Than Words” at a party. This power ballad, almost saccharine in its simplicity, is undeniably catchy and irresistible. Coming from an album subtitled “A Funked Up Fairytale,” “More Than Words” is an anomaly in Extreme’s catalog. Yet, it guaranteed them lasting fame, and despite its overplay, its acoustic charm endures.
10. Simon And Garfunkel – The Boxer
The seemingly effortless acoustic guitar lines in “The Boxer” belie a complex and lengthy recording process. Over 100 studio hours across multiple locations were needed to capture the intricate fingerpicked parts by Paul Simon and session guitarist Fred Carter Jr. Featured on Simon & Garfunkel’s final album, “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “The Boxer” evolves from a gentle folk ballad to a powerful, anthemic conclusion. Initially thought to be about Bob Dylan, Simon later clarified it was autobiographical, though Dylan himself covered the song, perhaps embracing the initial interpretation.
9. Bob Marley – Redemption Song
“Redemption Song” stands out in Bob Marley’s reggae catalog as an uncharacteristic ballad. It’s also unique for featuring only Marley on vocals and acoustic guitar, without other musicians. Lyrically powerful and politically charged, it references a speech by Marcus Garvey while also reflecting Marley’s personal contemplation of mortality as he faced cancer. “Redemption Song” showcases Marley’s songwriting depth and acoustic artistry.
8. Neil Young – Needle And The Damage Done
“Needle And The Damage Done” is a significant song in the lineage of acoustic tracks addressing the perils of heroin addiction. Neil Young wrote it after witnessing his Crazy Horse bandmate Danny Whitten’s struggle with drug abuse. The recorded version, from Young’s classic “Harvest” album, is a live performance from UCLA’s Royce Hall, adding to its raw and intimate feel.
7. Johnny Cash – Hurt
Johnny Cash possessed a rare ability to make any song his own, and his cover of Nine Inch Nails’ “Hurt” is a prime example. By 2002, Cash’s iconic bass-baritone voice had aged, but it was this fragility and faded strength that gave his rendition of “Hurt” its profound power. Rick Rubin’s sparse, biblical arrangement further amplified the song’s emotional weight, creating a career-defining performance and a fitting epitaph to Cash’s legendary career.
6. Eric Clapton – Tears In Heaven
Considering the tragic circumstances surrounding its creation, it’s remarkable that Eric Clapton could even perform “Tears In Heaven,” let alone record and tour it. Instantly iconic upon release, and often attempted at open mic nights, “Tears In Heaven” is rightfully considered a Clapton classic. While both studio and unplugged versions are powerful, the song’s raw emotion and acoustic simplicity are undeniable.
5. The Eagles – Hotel California (Unplugged)
The unplugged version of Eagles’ “Hotel California” is undeniably lengthy, but it’s packed with impressive acoustic guitar work. From the Spanish-style intro to the tasteful solos, the guitar playing is exceptional. Some might find the bongos slightly out of place, but the overall acoustic arrangement and guitar virtuosity make this rendition a must-listen for acoustic guitar enthusiasts.
4. The Beatles – Blackbird
“Blackbird” is a solo acoustic folk performance by Paul McCartney, inspired by Bach’s Bouree In E Minor. McCartney’s gentle fingerpicking on a Martin D-28 is the centerpiece, accompanied only by his foot tapping for rhythm and subtle bird sound effects. Lyrically, “Blackbird” is a poignant response to the civil rights movement, using the blackbird as a symbol of hope and struggle in the face of adversity.
3. The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun
On The Beatles’ “White Album,” George Harrison’s songwriting prowess began to truly shine, and on “Abbey Road,” he delivered masterpieces like “Something” and “Here Comes The Sun.” Harrison penned “Here Comes The Sun” in Eric Clapton’s garden while skipping Apple meetings. Breezy, optimistic, and melodically rich, the song features complex time signatures and Harrison’s diverse acoustic guitar techniques, including a capo at the 7th fret.
2. The Beatles – Yesterday
In early 1965, Paul McCartney awoke with the melody for “Yesterday” fully formed. Initially using placeholder lyrics “scrambled eggs,” the song evolved into a poignant reflection on regret and loss. “Yesterday” is one of the most covered songs in history, with over 2,500 versions. Initially, The Beatles struggled to record it as a band, but it found its perfect form as a solo acoustic performance by McCartney on an Epiphone Texan, later enhanced by George Martin’s string quartet arrangement.
1. Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here
“Wish You Were Here,” a powerful lament for Syd Barrett, tops our list of Best Acoustic Guitar Songs. Showcasing Pink Floyd in their post-“Dark Side Of The Moon” era, it’s a towering tribute to a lost comrade. The song’s emotional depth, iconic acoustic guitar intro, and universal themes of absence and longing make it a deserving number one in any acoustic guitar song compilation. “Wish You Were Here” remains a timeless masterpiece of acoustic songwriting and performance.
These 30 songs represent just a fraction of the incredible acoustic music out there, but they serve as an excellent starting point for any guitarist looking to explore the depth and beauty of the acoustic guitar. Dive in, learn these songs, and discover your own favorites within the vast world of acoustic music.
